SpotlightBundesligaUnverified source· 27 Aug 2026
Paderborn's third Bundesliga shot: Can they finally survive?
After six years away, Paderborn return to the Bundesliga—but history says it won't be easy.
SC Paderborn 07
team
Promotion
Beat Wolfsburg in play-off
Last season
3rd in Bundesliga 2
Key departures
Mika Baur, Calvin Brackelmann
First fixture
Mainz (A)
What happened. Paderborn are back in the Bundesliga for the third time after beating Wolfsburg in the relegation play-off, but face a tough task to avoid the drop.
- They missed automatic promotion on goal difference to Elversberg.
- Young squad lost key players Mika Baur and Calvin Brackelmann.
- Pre-season included a 2-2 draw with Werder Bremen.
With a tough opening run and key departures, survival will be a challenge for Kettemann's side.
In this story
More to read
Sky Sports
Nmecha stunning double helps Dortmund to Paderborn win
The Guardian
European football: Dortmund win again but Freiburg top after Gladbach rout
Bundesliga
Felix Nmecha stunner adds gloss to Borussia Dortmund win
Bundesliga
Maximilian Eggestein strike sinks Paderborn as Freiburg continue perfect start
